October 10th is World Mental Health Day. It is a day that provides the opportunity for people everywhere to discuss their mental health, what more needs to be done to improve it, and how mental health care is a reality for people worldwide.
We're proud to partner with several leading global organizations to educate and encourage community members to prioritize their mental health, take the appropriate actions when needed, and motivate others to do the same.
The first of these resources is Pineapple Support. The Pineapple Support Society is a free support and therapy service for all persons working in the online adult industry – no matter their gender, ethnic origin, social status, age or sexual orientation. They have a team of sex-worker friendly, kink-aware therapists who offer face-to-face and online video therapy sessions. They operate 24/7, and they raise funds to help with the costs of professional coaching, counselling and therapy for those who need it. Aiming to destigmatize pornography and demystify porn consumption as harmful, they position porn as a tool for adults to explore gender identities and discover and fulfill desires. This is not an alternative to sex education, but rather a resource for discovery.
Next is our very own Sexual Wellness Center. The Sexual Wellness Center offers a wide range of topics pertaining to love, sexuality and health. At the helm is Dr. Laurie Betito, a distinguished broadcaster, author, clinical psychologist, speaker, and creator of two TEDx Talks. Every week, professionals from all walks of life contribute articles to the Sexual Wellness Center, covering various topics from communication to cheating to orgasms and more. For those who like to listen to podcasts with their morning coffee or on their commute to work, Dr Laurie Betito also co-hosts Passion With Dr. Laurie Betito & Jon Pole, a podcast that often touches on subjects surrounding mental health and how that directly correlates to sexual wellness.
Recently, we announced a partnership with The Cupcake Girls. They are an organization that provides advocacy and referral services to consensual sex workers and prevention and aftercare services to those affected by sex trafficking. Our shared goals, values, resources, and a profound commitment to the support, well-being, safety and success of independent content creators make The Cupcake Girls an excellent resource for those seeking to improve or educate themselves on mental health.
SWOP Behind Bars is another initiative to utilize, specifically for sex workers who are currently incarcerated or seeking re-entry. They are a national grassroots social justice network dedicated to the fundamental human rights of sex workers, victims of trafficking, and their communities. They work to end violence and stigma by providing resources, community-building projects, educational programs, and advocacy. In addition to their community support line, they also provide newsletters, mentorship by mail, and more.
While today is World Mental Health Day, raising awareness of mental health worldwide is a year-round initiative. Start mobilizing your efforts of supporting your mental health today to create a better future for yourself and your community!
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